Colo. courts draw criticism with Broncos banners

Broncos banners on court

By Associated Press&nbsp|&nbsp

Posted: Sun 11:12 AM, Jan 26, 2014&nbsp|&nbsp

Updated: Mon 7:06 AM, Jan 27, 2014

DENVER (AP) Some legal experts are criticizing Colorado's Supreme Court and Court of Appeals after four blue and orange "Go Broncos" banners costing $3,200 were hung from the columns of the courts' building in downtown Denver.

William Brunson, director of special projects at the National Judicial College in Reno, Nev., tells The Denver Post that judges should be hyperaware of appearing unbiased, and the banners could create a conflict of interest if a case involving the Broncos corporation or a player ever appeared before the court.

Newly appointed Chief Justice Nancy Rice approved the banners, which were hung before the Broncos' AFC championship win over the New England Patriots.

Rob McCallum, a spokesman for the Colorado Judicial Branch, says support for the Broncos doesn't factor into interpretation of the law.